New senior rec leader takes over

MURRIETA -- With almost two months on the job under her belt,
Jeri Copeland, the city's new senior recreation supervisor is
already settling in and planning changes.

Each week, hundreds of seniors participate in activities at the
center, including a lunch program, exercise and computer classes,
health checks and instructional workshops.

Situated at the corner of Adams Avenue and Juniper Street in Old
Town, the senior center opened in September under the temporary
leadership of Annette Jennings. The 45-year-old Copeland took the
reins when she arrived May 15.

Copeland worked in Moreno Valley for the recreation department
for 11 years, the last four of which she served as the program
coordinator for the senior center there. Now, however, she's
decided to shorten her commute and work in Murrieta, where she has
lived for three years.

"I'm loving my commute now -- it only takes 10 minutes to get to
work," Copeland said earlier this week, adding that spending less
time on the road means she has more time to spend with her husband
and five children.

Community Services Manager Debbie Tharp said hat Copeland
transitioned easily into the job, mainly due to her friendly
personality.

"She's very upbeat," Tharp said.

Although Copeland says she's still learning how things work in
Murrieta, she has made a few changes already.

Starting Aug. 1, she plans to expand the senior center's lunch
program from three days to five days a week.

The lunch is free for seniors 60 years and older, who can make
an optional donation of $2, and $5.50 for seniors 59 years and
younger. Lunch is served to more than 100 seniors a day, Tharp
said.

Ron Goggia, a member of the Murrieta XYZ Senior Club, said the
meals are popular because the price is right but -- more
importantly -- seniors enjoy the company of other seniors.

"If they were serving hard tack and salami, people would enjoy
it just as much because of the company," Goggia said.

Copeland has also scheduled a blood drive Aug. 14 at the senior
center, which would be open to nonseniors as well. In addition, she
is planning to make flu shots available at the senior center this
year before the flu season hits.

Also in the plans is a senior forum where speakers will be
available to talk about and answer questions on issues of
importance to seniors.

Pat Lallou, who frequents the senior center, said that although
she really misses Jennings she thinks that Copeland is a great gal"
who everyone likes.

Goggia agreed.

Deputy City Manager Jim Holston said Jennings did a great job
running the center but when the choice for a permanent supervisor
was made, the city went with the person with the most experience.
Jennings is now serving as a recreation coordinator elsewhere the
city, which will give her the experience she needs for future
opportunities, Holston said.